Autodesk 2001 Annual Report Download - page 14

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Autodesk, Inc. FY 01
Mechanical Desktop
Mechanical Desktop is the world’s leading midpriced 3D
design system and is the only system that integrates 2D
design with parametric, feature-based solid and surface
modeling. It extends the power of the AutoCAD design
environment by uniting 2D and 3D design.
AutoCAD Architectural Desktop
AutoCAD Architectural Desktop software offers architec-
tural design tools. Supporting the architectural design
process from conceptual design to design development,
through construction documentation, AutoCAD
Architectural Desktop features industry-specific 2D pro-
duction drafting functionality, integrated and accessible
3D design options and all of AutoCAD’s functionality.
Users benefit from simplified mass modeling, intelligent
building components, style definitions and layer manage-
ment according to industry standards. AutoCAD
Architectural Desktop software’s data continuity through-
out the entire design process enables efficiency and
productivity by eliminating the need to recreate design
and drafting data.
AutoCAD Map
AutoCAD Map is the Autodesk solution for precision map-
ping and geographic information system analysis in the
AutoCAD environment. It contains the complete AutoCAD
toolset to enhance productivity, plus it offers specialized
functionality for creating, maintaining and producing
maps and geospatial data.
The principal product offerings from the Discreet
Segment are discussed below:
3ds max
3ds max is a professional 3D modeling, animation and ren-
dering software package providing advanced tools for
character animation, next generation game development
and visual effects production. Users benefit from the uni-
fied, object-oriented platform, customizable real-time
interface, multiple-processor support and 3D graphics
acceleration capabilities.
flame
flame is an on-line, resolution-independent, non-linear,
uncompressed digital effects and compositing system.
The system is used by creative professionals to create, edit
and composite special visual effects in a real-time work-
station environment. Easily integrated into a suite
environment and possessing the power and features
necessary to serve as the core of a fully digital suite, flame
is designed to allow the operator to create desired effects
with near instantaneous feedback.
inferno
inferno is an on-line, non-linear, resolution-independent,
uncompressed digital system providing all the features of
flame with film tools, and increased image resolution and
color control for digital film work.The system also features
tools for grain management,wire and scratch removal and
color calibration.
Product Development and Introduction
The majority of our basic research and product develop-
ment has been performed in the U.S., while translation
and localization of foreign-market versions, as well as
some product development, are performed by develop-
ment teams or contractors in our local markets. Our
product-related functions in Europe, including software
development, localization, quality assurance and technical
publications, are centralized in Neuchatel, Switzerland.
Production in Europe is centralized in Ireland, and produc-
tion in Asia Pacific primarily takes place in Singapore.
The technology industry is characterized by rapid techno-
logical change in computer hardware, operating systems
and software,as well as changes in customer requirements
and preferences. To keep pace with these changes, we
maintain an aggressive program of new product develop-
ment.We dedicate considerable resources to research and
development to further enhance our existing products
and to create new products and technologies.
Our software products are internally complex and, despite
extensive testing and quality control, may contain errors
or defects.These defects or errors could result in corrective
releases to our software products, damage to our reputa-
tion,loss of revenues, an increase in product returns or lack
of market acceptance of our products, any of which could
harm our business.
We actively recruit and hire experienced software devel-
opers and license and acquire complementary software
technologies and businesses. In addition, we actively col-
laborate with and support independent software
developers who offer products that enhance and comple-
ment our products.
With the prevalence of new Internet technologies and the
demand for increased customer connectivity, new plat-
forms and technologies can be expected to be developed
in the design industries. We are devoting significant
resources to the development of such technologies as well
as transitioning to new business models, requiring a con-
siderable investment of technical and financial resources.
Such investments may not result in sufficient revenue
generation to justify their costs, or competitors may